Stop Apologizing
Sensitivity is at an all-time high in the year 2020. People are taking on a victim-minded approach when it comes to things they do not want to do. The pressure of societal norms can cause us to feel like we are in the wrong if we do not wholeheartedly agree or if we do not accept every invitation extended to us. No one wants to offend, so they feel the need to tag along an apology when it is genuinely unnecessary. Retrain your brain to a healthier thought process and clearly determine what you want out of situations.
How to say, "No" without apologizing
" I won't be able to make it tonight. Thank you for the invitation."
"No, that does not work for me right now."
"That does not sound like something I can commit to at the moment."
"Thank you for thinking of me, but I plan on laying low."
Instead of: "Sorry, I am late!"
Try: "Thank you for waiting."
Instead of: "Sorry, I did not realize."
Try: "Thank you for pointing that out."
Instead of: "Sorry, I messed up."
Try: "I will fix that now."
Instead of: "Sorry, I bumped you."
Try: "Excuse me."
Instead of: "Sorry to bother you..."
Try: "Do you have a minute?"
Instead of: "Sorry, I do not understand..."
Try: "Could you help me understand...?
Profusely apologizing is a self-conditioning technique. We feel better if other parties sense our indication of shame. It allows us to place blame on ourselves when there is nothing (in these types of situations) to feel sorry for. Instead of minimizing your demeanor, Express your unavailability or concerns in a mature manner. Save the sorry for when it matters most.
